'Into the Wild' a Thought-Provoking Gem

Into the Wild

Into the wild is a surprising film. A simple concept on the surface about the experiences of 'Alexander Supertramp,' who left society, his money, his family and his possessions to go on an experience that would change his life. The film is based on the true story of his life and his ultimate death and is based on the book by Jon Krakaeur. Emile Hirsch gives a performance that will launch his career and should make him a star. He is eccentric and charming, hopelessly devoted to his ideals. Hirsch went through a lot of physical demands for the role, and as he becomes more and more skinny, it is evident that his devotion to the role was key.

Sean Penn brilliantly directs the story; one that had great personal meaning to him, one which he has been trying to make for over 10 years. Alexander was many things, he was selfish and perhaps delusional, overly-confident. But he was brave, charming, courageous, smart; and on his two year journey, he touched the hearts of many people. 'Into the Wild' is an entertaining film; Vince Vaughn and Catherine Keener both do great in their small roles as people whom Alexander encountered on his journey. While we see his journey into the wild unfurl, we always return to the story that runs concordant with the journey that led him there; the abandoned Fairbanks bus in the Alaskan wilderness that was his home and his ultimate tomb. Perhaps the motives that led Alexander on his journey cannot and will not be understood by those who watch the film. However, the personal encounters that Penn juxtaposes with his Alaskan experience ultimately conclude with a powerful, emotional climax that teaches the viewer something that we all should learn ourselves; hopefully one that won't happen to late and at such a great cost. An entertaining and powerful film, a tragic ode to an amazing individual that in spite of his fate is an uplifting and though-provoking film.

Grade: A